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College Comparison

University of Michigan vs The University of Alabama: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

School

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricUniversity of MichiganAlabama
Acceptance Rate17.9%wins75.8%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1350–1530wins1170–1400
ACT Range (25th–75th)31–34wins24–31
Tuition (Out-of-State)$58,072$33,200wins
Avg Net Price$14,832wins$22,150
Median Earnings (10 yr)$83,648wins$59,221
Graduation Rate93.2%wins73.7%
Retention Rate97.6%wins86.1%
Student–Faculty Ratio11:1wins19:1
Total Enrollment33,488wins32,323

Verdict

Based on the data above, University of Michigan edges out Alabama on 9 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 17.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1350–1530
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 31–34
  • Avg Net Price: $14,832

Alabama Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,200

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